Don’t worry if you don’t know how to code! Let’s create a website or portal for you or your library using a Content Management System (CMS) like Joomla, WordPress, Drupal, Magento, or ModX.

What exactly is a content management system?

A content management system (CMS) simplifies website management. It’s an application that enables multiple users to create, edit, and publish web content. Within a CMS, content is usually stored separately from its visual appearance, which is determined by templates.

Here’s what we need to create a website:

1. Choose a website name.
2. Secure hosting and a domain name: These are essential components:
   • Hosting: This is where your website’s files will reside online.
   • Domain: This is your website’s address (e.g., www.example.com).

Many hosting providers are available, including GoDaddy, Hostinger, Bluehost, and HostGator. You can purchase a plan after verifying if your desired domain name is available. If not, you might need to make slight adjustments to your website name before securing hosting. Once you have hosting, install your chosen content management system.

Important Note: If your college or institution has a server, consult with the system administrator to request space for your library portal. You might not need separate hosting in this scenario.

Let’s Install and Set Up WordPress

WordPress® is a versatile platform, often used as a content management system, that empowers you to create and manage a blog or website.

Image Credit: Wikipedia

How to Install WordPress on Your Hosting Account

1. Access your GoDaddy account (assuming you are using GoDaddy for hosting).
2. Locate and click on “Web Hosting.”
3. Next to your chosen hosting account, click “Manage.”
4. In the “Popular Apps” section under “Options & Settings,” select “WordPress.”
5. Click the “Install” button.
6. Fill in the required information and click “OK”:
   • Domain: Choose the specific domain from your account.
   • Directory: Specify the directory where WordPress should be installed. Leave blank if you want it installed directly on the domain.
   • Create an “Admin Name,” a strong “Admin Password” (and confirm it), provide your “Email Address,” and set your desired “Blog Title.”

WordPress will be installed on your hosting account with your chosen settings, usually within 24 hours. You’ll receive a confirmation email once it’s complete. Register with WordPress, creating a username and password. Remember these credentials, as they grant you control over your website.

Customizing Your Website

After installing WordPress, you’ll have a basic website at your domain. Open it in a browser and add /login to the address (e.g., www.yourwebsite.com/login) to access the login page. Use your WordPress credentials to log in, which takes you to the Dashboard—your website’s control center. Here’s how to start customizing:

1. Choose a theme: In your Dashboard, navigate to “Appearance” -> “Themes” -> “Add New.” Explore and select a theme you like (e.g., Astra), then click “Install” and “Activate.”
2. Install recommended plugins: Your chosen theme might suggest plugins for easier customization. Install these plugins from “Plugins” -> “Add New” (e.g., search for “Astra” plugins if using the Astra theme). Click “Install” and then “Activate.”
3. Import a demo design: Many themes offer pre-designed templates. Your chosen theme might use a plugin like Elementor for easy editing. Explore available demo designs (usually accessible via “See Library” or a similar option within your theme’s settings). Elementor is a popular drag-and-drop editor that simplifies customization. Once you find a design you like, install the required design plugin and click “Import” to apply it to your site.
4. Customize with Elementor: With the demo content imported, click on any page and select “Edit with Elementor” to customize it visually. Make changes using Elementor’s drag-and-drop interface until you’re happy with the look.

That’s it! You can now add pages, text, images, and more. Your website is ready!

Want to Experiment Locally? Download and install a local WordPress environment (available for Windows and Linux) from https://bitnami.com/stack/wordpress/installer. This lets you try WordPress without needing a live server.

Good luck, and happy website building!

Helpful References:

• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8OBfr46Y0cQ
• https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YWA-xbsJrVg 

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